Steve Mariucci agreed with Owens’ decision: “That's certainly his decision, there's going to be times when guys are more willing than others." While the 49ers encourage media interaction, and even focus on handling the media in training camp, the team does not mandate that players speak to the media. “That’s certainly his decision.” Mariucci said. "We have sessions in training camp about dealing with the media, but we don't mandate that everyone has to speak to the media for 'X' amount of time. I can't force anybody to speak to the media. There's going to be times when guys are more willing to do that than others. That's a decision the players have to make, and they have their own reasons."

Despite his media boycott, Owens agreed to an interview with ESPN Magazine as the publication wants to do a cover story on the receiver. In recent weeks, Owens has also been in the national media, including on ESPN television, but continues to ignore requests from the Bay Area media.